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An orthodontic evaluation is an important step in protecting your child’s oral health and guiding the development of their smile. According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), children should have their first orthodontic checkup by age seven — even if their teeth appear straight. This early visit can help detect potential problems and allow for timely treatment that may reduce the need for more extensive care later on.
If your child’s first evaluation is coming up, here’s a step-by-step guide on what to expect and how to prepare.
Why Age Seven Is the Recommended Time
Around age seven, children typically have a mix of baby teeth and permanent teeth. This stage allows orthodontists to:
- Assess how adult teeth are coming in.
- Evaluate jaw growth and bite alignment.
- Identify early signs of crowding, spacing, or bite problems.
Even if no treatment is needed immediately, this early checkup gives the orthodontist a baseline to monitor your child’s growth and development over time.
Before the Appointment
It’s natural for kids to feel a little nervous before a new type of dental visit. You can help them feel at ease by:
- Explaining that the orthodontist will simply look at their teeth and jaw.
- Letting them know there won’t be any shots or painful procedures.
- Reading children’s books about braces and orthodontics to make it more familiar.
Arrive a few minutes early to allow your child to adjust to the new environment without feeling rushed.
Step 1: Reviewing Medical and Dental History
The appointment will begin with a review of your child’s medical and dental history. This includes:
- Any past injuries to the teeth or jaw.
- Oral habits such as thumb-sucking or mouth breathing.
- Family history of orthodontic issues.
Sharing this information helps the orthodontist understand potential risk factors and tailor their recommendations.
Step 2: Visual Examination
The orthodontist will visually inspect your child’s teeth, bite, and facial profile. They’ll check for:
- Crowding or spacing issues.
- Bite alignment — overbite, underbite, crossbite, or open bite.
- Jaw symmetry and growth patterns.
- The presence and position of permanent teeth.
This part of the visit is quick and non-invasive, and your child can relax in the chair while the orthodontist looks around.
Step 3: Diagnostic Imaging and Records
To get a complete picture of your child’s oral development, the orthodontist may take:
- Panoramic X-rays — To see all teeth, including those that haven’t erupted yet.
- Cephalometric X-rays — To evaluate jaw position and growth direction.
- Digital photographs — To document the current position of teeth and facial profile.
Some practices also use digital scanners instead of traditional impressions to create a 3D model of your child’s mouth. This is faster and more comfortable than older methods.
Step 4: Discussion of Findings
Once the examination and imaging are complete, the orthodontist will review the findings with you. This is your opportunity to ask questions and better understand your child’s orthodontic needs. Topics may include:
- Whether treatment is needed now or in the future.
- Recommended treatment options.
- Estimated treatment timeline and goals.
- How growth patterns may affect orthodontic care.
If no immediate action is needed, your child may enter a “watch and wait” phase, returning for periodic checkups to track development.
Step 5: Talking About Treatment Options
If early intervention is recommended, the orthodontist will explain the possible treatments. For younger children, these may include:
- Space maintainers — To hold space for incoming permanent teeth.
- Palatal expanders — To widen the upper jaw for better alignment.
- Partial braces or other appliances — To correct specific bite or alignment issues.
Early treatment can guide jaw growth, create space for crowded teeth, and reduce the complexity of future orthodontic care.
Step 6: Planning for the Future
Even if treatment doesn’t start right away, the orthodontist will outline what to watch for as your child grows. You’ll receive guidance on:
- Maintaining good oral hygiene.
- Avoiding habits that can affect tooth alignment.
- Scheduling follow-up visits at the right intervals.
Regular monitoring ensures that if orthodontic treatment becomes necessary, it’s started at the most effective time.
Making the First Visit Positive
A positive first experience sets the tone for future appointments. You can help by:
- Offering encouragement and praise before and after the visit.
- Letting your child bring a favorite toy or book for comfort.
- Highlighting the benefits of a healthy, straight smile.
The goal of the first evaluation isn’t to start treatment right away — it’s to gather information, answer questions, and create a plan that supports your child’s long-term oral health.
The Takeaway
Your child’s first orthodontic evaluation is a simple, informative process that plays a big role in planning for a healthy, confident smile. Whether treatment is needed immediately or years down the road, early assessment helps ensure the best results with the least complexity.
Schedule Your Child’s Orthodontic Evaluation in Jackson, MI
At Watterson Dentistry, we provide gentle, thorough orthodontic evaluations for children in Jackson, MI and the surrounding area. Our team takes the time to explain every step, answer your questions, and create a plan tailored to your child’s needs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start your child on the path to a lifetime of healthy smiles.